Appeals Court Rules NFL May Face Trial for Allegations of Discrimination Against Black Coaches

A federal appeals court has ruled that the NFL can be taken to court over civil allegations of discrimination faced by Brian Flores and other Black coaches. This decision, delivered on Thursday, counters the league's effort to compel Flores into arbitration with Commissioner Roger Goodell acting as arbitrator.The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan affirmed Judge Valerie Caproni's ruling allowing Flores to proceed with his claims against the NFL and three franchises: the Denver Broncos, New York Giants, and Houston Texans.Circuit Judge Jose A. Cabranes noted that the NFL’s arbitration system lacks the protections of the Federal Arbitration Act, arguing it is “arbitration in name only.” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy expressed disagreement with the ruling, stating that the league would seek further review. Flores, who argues the league is “rife with racism” in its hiring practices, is currently the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive coordinator.